A Panama-flagged chemical/oil products tanker has reportedly been severely damaged in Russian drone strike at the port of Izmail, Ukraine.
The 7,842 dwt Excellion was moored at the eastern pier of the Izmail Oil Transshipment Complex during the early hours of August 20 when a series of UAV strikes were launched by Russian forces against port facilities.
According to Russian-affiliated media and military channels, the tanker was directly targeted alongside critical port infrastructure, including the Triton oil depot. Up to 20 UAVs were said to be used in the operation, with at least 30 explosions recorded over a 90-minute window. Maritime security specialists Ambrey reported observing unverified post-strike footage showing fire and significant destruction across the port.
The tanker had arrived in Izmail the evening prior from Sulina, Romania, fully laden with petroleum products. At the time of the attack, it was conducting unloading operations.
Preliminary reports suggest the vessel suffered extensive damage to the starboard superstructure, with fire and blast effects impacting onboard systems. Heat exposure reportedly disabled pumping equipment and pipeline infrastructure, leaving the vessel unable to operate independently. Tow-out and potential decommissioning are now being considered, sources said.
Local authorities confirmed strikes on port infrastructure but did not officially acknowledge damage to the vessel.
The Izmail oil complex is a key logistical hub for fuel imports into Ukraine via the Danube. The facility has handled up to 20,000 tons of fuel per week, including jet fuel and low-temperature diesel, largely destined for inland military depots supplying Ukrainian mechanized forces.